President & CEO

About the Organization

Maryland Nonprofits is a statewide association dedicated to helping nonprofits operate more effectively so they can improve quality of life and advance equity. Established more than 30 years ago, the organization has grown into a major resource for the sector, serving close to 2,000 members and partners with a team of more than 20 employees and an annual budget of about $5 million.

Its work supports nonprofits through training, consulting, advocacy, and sector leadership. As a respected nonpartisan policy voice, the organization brings together stakeholders, shares knowledge, and advocates for the nonprofit community at local, state, and federal levels. Its programs include professional development, the Standards for Excellence Institute, consulting offerings, and statewide networks that help strengthen communities and expand equity.

Role Overview

The President & CEO will lead the organization through a period of major change across Maryland’s nonprofit landscape, including shifts in federal funding, changing public policy, and rising service demands. This executive will work closely with the Board and staff to carry out the 2023–2027 priorities, broaden advocacy reach, deepen member engagement, and ensure programs remain responsive to the sector’s evolving needs.

The role also carries responsibility for building a durable financial foundation and developing partnerships across sectors to increase statewide influence. The successful leader will oversee the senior team, shape an inclusive and collaborative workplace, and turn strategic direction into measurable action.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Board to define, refine, and execute a future-focused strategic direction.
• Convert organizational priorities into concrete plans with clear measures of success.
• Maintain strong governance practices, organizational alignment, and accountability.
• Act as the organization’s chief spokesperson and lead advocate for Maryland’s nonprofit sector.
• Develop and maintain relationships with policymakers, funders, and leaders across sectors.
• Advance a forward-looking public policy agenda and raise the organization’s profile.
• Drive improvement and innovation across programs such as training, consulting, and Standards for Excellence.
• Strengthen member recruitment, retention, and overall engagement.
• Use performance data and evaluation results to improve program quality and relevance.
• Lead a diversified revenue strategy that includes membership, earned income, and philanthropy.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and long-term organizational sustainability.
• Ensure effective systems, internal controls, and operational discipline.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing leadership team and staff.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, collaborative culture grounded in equity and accountability.
• Improve internal infrastructure and cross-functional coordination.

Candidate Profile

• Strong alignment with Maryland Nonprofits’ mission of strengthening organizations to improve quality of life and equity.
• At least 10 years of senior-level leadership experience in the nonprofit sector or a related field.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit sector trends, policy issues, and operating realities.
• Demonstrated financial judgment and experience diversifying revenue sources.
• Proven ability to raise funds and build sustainable business models.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to turn ideas into execution.
• Excellent communication skills and comfort serving as a public representative.
• Background in advocacy, public policy, or coalition development.
• Track record of leading change and navigating complex organizational environments.
• Experience building and guiding strong teams.
• Deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Experience working with nonprofit boards and governance structures.

Compensation

The Board has budgeted compensation between $180,000 and $200,000, depending on experience. Total compensation includes base pay plus incentive compensation tied to organizational milestones.

Application Details

The Board has engaged a national nonprofit executive search firm to manage the recruitment process. Resume review begins right away, and candidates are encouraged to apply by mid-June for strongest consideration because the search is moving quickly.

Equal Opportunity

Maryland Nonprofits is committed to equal employment opportunity and considers all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic covered by law.